Separatist Leader Shakeel Bakshi Arrested After 29 Years: Breaking Down the 1996 Srinagar Violence Case

Separatist leader Shakeel Ahmad Bakshi was apprehended on Monday in connection with a case dating back almost three decades.

A significant development has occurred in a long-dormant investigation with the arrest of separatist leader Shakeel Ahmad Bakshi, breathing new life into the probe of a violent 1996 demonstration at Naaz Crossing in Srinagar.

The arrest took place on Monday, marking a pivotal moment in this cold case.

Allegations against Bakshi include inciting a mob during a July 1996 procession carrying the remains of Hilal Ahmad Beigh, a slain militant. Reports indicate the gathering turned violent, resulting in confrontations with law enforcement at Naaz Crossing, characterized by stone-throwing, anti-national rhetoric, and gunfire aimed at security personnel.

The FIR documents that when the SHO of Shergarhi attempted to control the situation, the crowd became hostile. Bakshi is named alongside several prominent figures—Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Abdul Gani Lone, Shabir Shah, Mohammad Yaqoob Wakeel, Javid Ahmad Mir, and Nayeem Ahmad Khan—accused of inflaming the crowd and violating multiple laws including the Ranbir Penal Code, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and the Arms Act.

Among the accused, Geelani, Lone, and Wakeel have since died, while Shabir Shah and Nayeem Khan are currently imprisoned in Tihar Jail facing separate National Investigation Agency charges. Authorities continue to search for Javid Ahmad Mir, who remains at large.

Bakshi's detention is anticipated to reinvigorate this dormant case that has remained unresolved for nearly 29 years. Following completion of necessary legal procedures, the case will finally proceed toward conclusion.